Pijprokende man 1743 - 1800

Pieter Louw created this print of a pipe-smoking man sometime in the 18th century. It offers a glimpse into the social rituals and class distinctions of the Dutch Republic. Notice how the scene is cloaked in shadow, lit only by a single candle. The man’s leisurely pose, fine clothing, and the presence of wine and tobacco speak to a life of relative comfort and privilege, in contrast to the lives of ordinary Dutch citizens at the time. Tobacco had become increasingly popular in the Netherlands since the early 17th century. The prevalence of tobacco use during this time had a significant impact on Dutch society, shaping social interactions, economic activities, and cultural practices. To understand this image more fully, we might turn to sources like period tax records or import statistics to learn more about the production and consumption of tobacco. Through these resources, we can better understand the social world embedded within Louw’s image.